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Now that the turkey has been eaten, I can start my Christmas shopping.
My husband and I have started a tradition of only exchanging stockings and leaving the big presents to the kids. I’ve gotten pretty good at finding some great stocking stuffers (but I still always include a toothbrush because tradition) and I thought I’d share some of my stocking stuffer ideas for runners. I’m pretty sure a lot of these ideas will either end up in my stocking or my husband’s this Christmas.These are pretty basic items that any runner can appreciate. You can go fancy and surprise them with a new GPS watch or iPod, but I prefer to stuff stockings with lots of little must-haves instead of bigger items.
I never leave home for a run without my RoadID. It has my name, blood type, allergies, and an emergency contact number engraved on the bracelet (I also added a little inspirational quote.) If I were to ever get into an accident, my RoadID will provide emergency responders with vital information. They also offer a version that clips to your shoelaces, but I prefer the Wrist ID slim. It’s not fun to think about, but if you’re hit by a car, the chances are you won’t be in your shoes anymore. Also, first responders will be checking your wrists for pulse, ect, so the information is more likely to be seen.
2. NUUN:
NUUN is an electrolyte tablet that comes in many different flavors and formulas. It’s my go-to hydration product because it travels easily and tastes great. I can pop a tube on NUUN in my purse or carry-on bag and add it to a water bottle after security to stay hydrated when I travel for races. Add a little NUUN to seltzer water, and you have a refreshing drink any day of the week. I suggest a sampler pack for your runner so they can try out several different flavors and find their favorite.
3. Socks:
I’m fairly confident it’s impossible for any runner to have too many socks. I probably buy at least three new pairs a month. Injinji is my go-to sock, but Feetures! are great as well. Just remember, never gift a runner cotton socks. For winter, there are great wool running socks that help keep feet warm while keeping feet dry.
4. Race Dots:
I’ve just recently discovered these little beauties and I am completely in love with the concept. I’m hoping they end up in my stocking this year. Race Dots are strong magnets you use to attach your race bib to your shirt. No more sticking yourself with safety pins or crooked race numbers or holes in my favorite race shirts. I honestly don’t know why someone didn’t think of these sooner and I’m already planning DIY versions of these to match my race costumes.
5. Gels or Beans:
This is an obvious choice, but any runner will tell you they can’t ever have too much fuel, especially when they’re in the middle of a training cycle. If you can, find out what fuel your runner prefers and stick with the same brand. If you’re not sure what type of fuel they prefer, you usually can’t go wrong with Gu or Jelly Belly Sport Beans.
6. Ear Buds:
I lose almost every set of earburs I buy. I leave them at the park or they fall out of my arms after a race. There are lots of different versions of ear buds on the market, in a wide variety of price ranges, but I prefer Yurbuds because they provide great sound, but allow for ambient noise so you can hear if a car is coming or if someone is running up behind you. I run with only one earbud in on my lone training runs, but I haven’t found a single-ear-earbud that is worth the price. Someone needs to get on with inventing one already.
7. iTunes Gift Card:
I am constantly downloading new music for my runs, especially right before a race. I always appreciate an iTunes gift card so I can stock my music library with some great motivational tunes. I also love iTunes gift cards because you can pick them up practically anywhere. I always grab a few and keep them on-hand for the holiday season because they’re such a versatile gift.
8. Reflective Gear:
Winter running is rough, thanks to dark mornings and early darkness in the evenings. It’s especially important to have reflective items like Knuckle Lights or a simple reflective belt/vest on-hand for those dark runs.
9. Head Protection:
Hats and headbands are must-have accessories for winter weather runs. I rotate between both types of head protection, depending on the weather. Headbands are perfect for keeping ears warm on chilly mornings and a good beanie-style hat will keep your head warm on the coldest of days. I see crazy people running in single-digit temps without a hat and I wonder how they do it. They’re crazy, that’s how. Don’t let the runner in your life be crazy. Buy them a hat. Bonus points for buying the lady runner in your life a beanie with a ponytail hole like this Brooks Infiniti Beanie.
10. Gloves:
Gloves are another must-have winter weather running accessory. They’ll be used constantly and become the difference between calling a run early and staying out for that extra mile. When it comes to types of gloves, I do prefer gloves made for runners because they typically have a fleece patch on the back of the hand. Why a fleece patch you ask? Well, because cold weather + running= runny noses. Us runners are gross. Deal with it. I’m also always thankful for the $1 stretchy gloves for races. This way I can toss the gloves after I warm up and not feel guilty about it.
11. Foot Rubz:
I received one of these little guys when I was working for a subscription box company and fell in love. I can keep it in my gym bag or purse or desk and use it whenever I need to. It’s great on more than just feet, too. I use it on my knee to get targeted massage on my forever injured tendon as well as on my neck and back after a long day of being on the computer. If you get one for your runner, grab a second for yourself.
So there you have it, 11 ideas for stocking stuffers for the runner in your life (or for yourself!) Do you have anything to add to the list? Leave a comment and let me know!
Happy Shopping!
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